Cycling in the Pyrenees Mountains offers some of the most iconic, challenging, and scenic road riding in the world.
Stretching between France and Spain, the range is a cornerstone of the Tour de France and is celebrated for legendary climbs such as the Col du Tourmalet, Col d’Aubisque, and Col de Peyresourde. Riders can expect long, sustained ascents with gradients typically between 6% and 8%, combined with steep, technical descents that demand both endurance and skill.
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This trip is not for the feint of heart. In 14 days you will ride roughly 800km and amass over 22,000m of climbing. For an avid cyclist it doesn’t get much better than this. Bristling for 430km from the Atlantic to the Mediterranean, the towering Pyrenees mountains may lure you with storied climbs such as the Tourmalet, but their true magic lies in quiet roads, spectacular food and wine, and undoubtedly France’s most welcoming and hospitable locals. Tackle a multi-day point-to-point crossing of the Pyrenees or simply spend a few long days riding in the tire tracks of the pros. These are some of the most challenging yet serene roads the world has to offer, call Magic Places Cycling Adventures with your plans for the Pyrenees and we’ll help make it a tour to remember for a lifetime. The legendary climbs of the Pyrenees feature on most cyclist’s list of “must ride” climbs.
The French side of the Pyrenees is known for its classic, demanding mountain passes, while the Spanish side offers warmer weather and remote climbs through dramatic, less-developed landscapes. The best time to cycle in the region is from June to September, when the mountain roads are fully open, although July and August are generally the busiest months for visitors and cyclists alike.
